Explosion at Riu Reggae Hotel in Jamaica Kills One, Injures Four

Several media outlets have reported that a maintenance manager was killed and four other employees were injured following an explosion at Riu Reggae hotel in Montego Bay, Jamaica, on Thursday.

According to Fox News,Jamaica Fire Brigade spokesman Emeleo Ebanks told the Associated Press on Friday that officials are investigating what caused the explosion at the Riu Reggae hotel in Montego Bay.

He said it occurred Thursday inside the hotel's boiler room and forced the evacuation of hundreds of people, according to that report. According to the Jamaica Observer, the five, who were members of the hotel’s maintenance team, were working in a boiler room when an explosion occurred.

“I am deeply saddened about the unfortunate accident that occurred at the Hotel RIU Reggae, which resulted in several injuries and the loss of a life,” said Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s minister of tourism, in a written release. “I offer my sincere condolences to the staff of the hotel as they cope with the aftermath of this tragic incident I also offer my support to the families and friends of the other injured staff members who are all receiving treatment in the hospital.”

Following a $60 million investment, the Riu Reggae officially opened in November of last year.

“The Ministry of Tourism will continue to monitor the situation,” said Bartlett, “and will be working closely with the hotel to ensure that the grieving families receive the necessary support during this difficult time.”